Cat 140 Next Gen: controls, circle and grade options

Choosing the Next Gen 140's controls and grade equipment

The Next Gen 140 offers a choice between joystick controls and levers with a steering wheel. Specify that choice when comparing machines. Cat's current US equipment list also distinguishes optional autoshift from the underlying countershaft torque-converter powershift transmission.

The published gear schedule includes nine forward and six reverse ratios; an entry showing only nine forward gears is incomplete.

Cab protection and steering equipment need separate checks. The US listing includes an integrated ROPS/FOPS structure, but places secondary steering and the Operator Presence System in its optional equipment section. Its feature description discusses both systems more broadly.

Confirm the build sheet before promising either function on a particular grader. The hydraulic travel lockout described by Cat disables implement movement while retaining steering control.

Circle equipment also changes the service inspection. Cat lists the High Performance Circle, top-adjust drawbar, Circle Saver and remote pinion lubrication among available choices. A circle-drive slip clutch appears in the standard drawbar equipment.

Inspect the actual circle and lubrication arrangement before using an optional system's maintenance instructions. Ground-level DEF and fuel filling and grouped engine-oil/fuel filters are listed service features.

Grade-ready does not mean a complete 3D installation

Cat's separate MAR-1/Tier 3 equivalent brochure describes the joystick configuration with Cross Slope Assist and E-fence. It distinguishes a 3D-ready machine, supplied with antennas and display, from an operational full 3D system: additional radio equipment and local licences are required. Check those items during a demonstration.

A fitted display alone does not establish that the grader can follow the job's design.

The Attachment Ready Option has a different scope. Its sensor mounts, moldboard side-shift position-sensing cylinder and laser, sonic and total-station mounts prepare for installation. They do not replace the missing radio or licences.

Remote Troubleshoot and Remote Flash likewise depend on connectivity; the brochure qualifies availability by cellular coverage, subscription and region. These equipment descriptions concern that regional publication, whose engine ratings and operating weights must remain separate from the US Tier 4 schedule.